Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank
has expressed his support for the recent arrest of former Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The arrest, which is linked to allegations of fraud and the misappropriation of funds, has drawn significant attention from political circles.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Frank welcomed the EFCC’s action as a crucial step in holding public officials accountable for their alleged involvement in financial misconduct. However, he also called on the anti-corruption body to extend its investigation to other former governors, particularly those associated with the G-5 Governors—the group of five ex-PDP governors who supported President Bola Tinubu’s 2023 presidential bid despite their party affiliation.
Frank highlighted that there are unresolved corruption petitions against several members of the G-5, including Nyesom Wike (Rivers), Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu), Samuel Ortom (Benue), and Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia).
He stressed that while Okowa’s arrest is welcomed, it should not be seen as a politically motivated or selective action, especially considering that these other governors have similar accusations pending against them.
“We call on the EFCC to investigate these governors and others in the same manner,” Frank said. “The EFCC must demonstrate that no one is above the law, regardless of their political affiliations. If Okowa’s arrest is to have any legitimacy, the commission must take action against the other accused governors as well.”
Frank further voiced concerns over reports suggesting that there may be a political agreement between the presidency and the EFCC not to prosecute the G-5 Governors due to their support for Tinubu’s candidacy. He urged the EFCC to prove these reports wrong and proceed with investigations into the financial activities of the G-5 Governors.
In addition to the G-5, Frank pointed out that there are other figures within President Tinubu’s administration who are facing corruption allegations. He singled out the Minister of Works, David Umahi, and the Minister of State for Defence, Mohammed Bello Matawale, as individuals who should also be subject to scrutiny.
He warned the EFCC that selective justice would not only undermine public trust but could also jeopardize Nigeria’s international standing in global anti-corruption efforts. Frank reiterated his call for impartiality in the EFCC’s actions, urging them to take on all corruption cases without regard to political affiliations.
“If the EFCC fails to investigate and prosecute these cases impartially, it will only strengthen the perception that the commission is acting as a political tool,” Frank said.
Frank concluded his statement by calling for a commitment to transparency and the rule of law in all future investigations, ensuring that justice is truly served for all Nigerians.
As the EFCC continues its work, Nigerians are watching closely to see whether the commission will uphold its reputation as an impartial body fighting corruption, regardless of political considerations.